Carpenters Union Goes on Strike at PA Convention Center

Newsworks reports the Carpenters Union has gone on strike at the Pennsylvania Convention Center over rules that would allow convention attendees to set up their own booths and displays.

“There are tens of thousands of hospitality jobs that rely on the major events hosted by the center,” said Greg Fox, chairman of the Convention Center Authority. “If we are to remain competitive and busy, we have to have a different service model that is more efficient, less of a hassle and less expensive.”

What’s at stake in this fight? “They want this crazy stuff. They want exhibitors to use power tools, which we are not going to allow. They want to double the size of the booths exhibitors can erect on their own. It’s currently 300 square feet.” Despite management claims to the contrary, Coryell says labor rules are already more pro-union at New York’s Javits Center and halls in Washington and Baltimore.

Bottom line for the Carpenters’ elected leader: “I’m trying to protect my members and not lose jobs.”

Philadelphia Business Journal adds: “Next week is supposed to be a busy one for the Convention Center, with events for the Broad Street Run, Konami, the American Cancer Society, and Commonwealth Connections.”

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phillysportsfan

I’m not anti-union, my dad was a union guy. but everything i’ve ever read about the union rules at the convention center made me think there’s no way i’d ever have an event there if i had a choice. and people who book conventions do have a choice. and since it’s bad enough already, without having to cross a picket line, i don’t know what having one will do but turn even more people off to the venue.

and since plenty of people use power tools at home and work on a daily basis without being a member of a union, picking that as the last straw or whatever just makes him look ridiculous.

Scott

These are the people that give unions a bad name. Forcing vendors to pay for union services they do not need will drive away business and build even more resentment towards unions. When conventions stop coming to Philly the unions will suffer because of their inflated self-worth and greed. This is the equivalent of being forced to pay Best Buy to hook up your new tv.

Bill

Once again another reason to flee Philadelphia and watch from afar as it sinks further into the abyss. Democrats and unions have ruined this city.

tonyb

I guess the carpenters are afraid if they allow power tools they’ll be screwed. OMG! Again…shame, shame, shame.

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